Immigration & Legal Status in France 05/02/2026 Paris France
Visas, Residence Permits, and Long-Term Cards
France attracts thousands of foreign nationals each year for work, study, and family life. However, understanding the country’s immigration system remains a challenge due to evolving regulations and administrative procedures.
This first part explains the main visa types and residence permits available in France.
Residence Permits Explained
Non-EU nationals staying in France for more than 90 days must hold a titre de séjour (residence permit). Issued by local prefectures, these permits are linked to the purpose of stay, such as employment, studies, or family life.
Most applications and renewals are now handled online, though processing times can vary widely.
Visa Types & Conditions
Long-stay visas (VLS-TS) allow foreign nationals to enter France and remain legally for extended periods. Common categories include student visas, employee visas, visitor visas, and family-related visas. After arrival, these visas must be validated to serve as temporary residence permits.
Multi-Year Residence Cards
Multi-year residence cards are granted to residents who demonstrate stability, including lawful residence, sufficient income, and integration into French society. These cards reduce the need for annual renewals and are generally valid for two to four years.
The 10-Year Resident Card
The carte de résident offers long-term security and is typically issued after five years of continuous legal residence. It is also available to spouses of French nationals, refugees, and beneficiaries of family reunification, subject to integration requirements.
Talent Passports, Family Reunification, and Regularisation
France’s immigration framework also includes specialised permits and humanitarian pathways. This second part focuses on skilled migration, family unity, and irregular status.
Passport Talent
The Passeport Talent is designed for highly skilled professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, and investors. Valid for up to four years, it offers simplified procedures and allows accompanying family members to live and work in France.
Family Reunification
Foreign nationals legally residing in France may apply for family reunification to bring spouses and children. Applicants must demonstrate stable income, adequate housing, and a minimum period of lawful residence.
Irregular Status & Regularisation
Individuals living in France without legal status may request regularisation in exceptional cases. Authorities may consider length of stay, employment history, family ties, or humanitarian factors. Decisions are discretionary and handled by prefectures on a case-by-case basis.
Renewal & Change of Status
Residence permits must be renewed before expiration. Changes in personal or professional circumstances—such as employment or marital status—often require a formal change of status application. Delays remain common, making early preparation essential.
By Paris Telegraph News Room
